-
Exploring Olympic History through Host Country Stamps: 1896-1948
In his fascinating presentation, Roger Mooney took us on a historical journey through Olympic postage stamps issued by host countries, spanning from the first modern Olympic Games in Athens in 1896 to the London Games in 1948. Mooney’s focus was clear: only stamps from the host nations themselves were discussed, a unique way to trace…
-
How to Organize a Local Stamp Show: Lessons, Tips and Ideas
Organizing a local stamp show may seem daunting for a small club, but Edward Grabowski’s detailed recount of the 2018 Westfield Stamp Club annual show reveals how even a modest-sized event can be a resounding success. By blending community involvement, creative vendor options, smart fundraising, and partnerships with organizations like the U.S. Postal Service, Grabowski…
-
Reunion Covers: When Postage Due Stamps Saved the Day (1900-1901)
Philately is full of hidden gems, and one of the most intriguing stories comes from the tiny island of Reunion, a French colony in the Indian Ocean. Edward Grabowski’s presentation sheds light on a little-known postal phenomenon from the turn of the 20th century, when a shortage of regular postage stamps led to the temporary…
-
Cahoots & Covers: A Satirical Spin on AI-Driven Philatelic Fantasies!
In a humorous and imaginative presentation, Edward Grabowski introduces us to the world of “fraudulent fraud covers” — a tongue-in-cheek exploration of AI philately. This playful approach combines historical figures, postal oddities, and the creative potential of artificial intelligence, all while emphasizing that these covers are entirely fictional. Grabowski’s satirical presentation takes us through a…
-
A Collector’s Introduction to the Philately of the Ionian Islands
The Ionian Islands hold a special place in philatelic history, being the first Greek territory to issue postage stamps. Their stamps not only tell a tale of postal evolution but also reflect the region’s complex political history, marked by occupations, overprints, and rare varieties. Allan Smith’s presentation takes us through the fascinating world of Ionian…
-
Great Britain Stamps: Tangier Overprints
Tangier, Morocco, holds a fascinating place in both history and philately. This city, once a hotbed of international intrigue and diplomacy, also had a unique role in postal history, with stamps that offer collectors a glimpse into the geopolitical complexities of the time. Sam Vascones’ recent presentation shines a light on these rare stamps, helping…
-
Rare Varieties of Canada’s Pence Issue Stamps (1851-1859): A Comprehensive Review
Canada’s philatelic journey began with a series of stamps known as the “Pence Issue” from 1851 to 1859, preceding the country’s Confederation in 1867. These stamps, numbered 1 to 13 in philatelic catalogs, are prized by collectors for their beauty, rarity, and historical significance. In a recent presentation, Arnie Janson provided a detailed overview of…
-
Interrupted Mail: When Mail Meets Disaster
Ever wondered what happens when a letter faces disaster? From plane crashes to shipwrecks, these pieces of mail have survived extraordinary circumstances and provide a unique lens into history. In this video presentation by Arnie Janson on this intriguing topic, particularly focusing on interrupted mail in Canada. What is Interrupted Mail? Interrupted mail refers to…
-
Uncovering Mail Fraud Covers: U.S. Parcel Post Postage Due Stamps and Victor Segno’s Scam
In Edward Grabowski’s presentation on early 20th-century mail order fraud, he delves into the activities of Professor Victor Segno and his Signal Success Club. The focus is on three covers featuring U.S. parcel post postage due stamps addressed to Segno. Grabowski begins by explaining Segno’s fraudulent scheme of sending “success waves” to clients for $10…
-
Understanding Offset Lithograph Stamp Printing: A Detailed Guide
In this presenation Arnie Janson elegantly explains offset lithography in stamp printing and stamp varieties that can result from the process. Offset lithography, a key process in modern stamp printing, operates distinctly from engraved or gravure methods. This technique employs metal or polymer printing plates instead of the traditional lithographic stone, focusing on hydrophilic (water-attracting)…
